Otley and Witnesham Partnership

We teach Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development (SMSC) because it plays a vital role in helping children grow into well-rounded, respectful and thoughtful individuals. Through SMSC, children learn to understand themselves and others, make good choices, build positive relationships, and appreciate the diverse world around them. It supports their personal development alongside academic learning, helping them to become kind, responsible and confident members of the community.

Spiritual, Mora, Social and Cultural development (SMSC) is not a standalone subject at Otley and Witnesham Primary Schools. SMSC is threaded through all that we do at both within our core and wider curriculums as well as through assemblies, wider personal development and links with our communities. 

EYFS and KS1:

• Spiritual: Understanding and valuing feelings and emotions; exploring and understanding different religions and beliefs.

• Moral: Recognising right from wrong; developing a sense of fairness; understanding the consequences of actions.

• Social: Developing positive relationships with others; recognising and respecting differences in others.

• Cultural: Learning about different cultures, traditions and celebrations; understanding the importance of diversity.

KS2: 

• Spiritual: Reflecting on the world around us; exploring beliefs, values and meaning; understanding the concept of spirituality.

• Moral: Understanding the importance of rules and laws; making ethical judgements; developing a sense of responsibility and empathy.

• Social: Developing effective communication and teamwork skills; learning to manage conflicts and disagreements; developing an understanding of different cultures and beliefs.

• Cultural: Understanding and celebrating the diversity of our society; developing a sense of identity and belonging; exploring how culture impacts our daily lives.